How Can I Pre-Acclimatize to Kilimanjaro's High Altitude?

Everyone can benefit from using altitude training systems to pre-acclimatize to the high altitude.

Altitude training systems work by simulating the high altitudes found on Mount Kilimanjaro. The altitude training system reduces the percentage of oxygen in the air you breathe. Through regular use, the body undergoes physiological changes to cope with the lower oxygen level.

Without pre-acclimatization, as climbers ascend on Kilimanjaro, their bodies respond with short-term adaptations. These quick-response adaptations are meant primarily to prevent sickness and allow for some semblance of normal cardiovascular and muscular performance in an oxygen deprived environment.

Pre-acclimatization through altitude training systems produces long-term adaptations, such as an increase in red blood cells, blood volume, and efficiency of oxygen absorption. These adaptations help:

Reduce the Incidence of Acute Mountain Sickness. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is the main reason climbers fail on Mount Kilimanjaro (See Mountain Safety). Most people will experience some symptoms of AMS. Pre-acclimatization can reduce or eliminate symptoms of AMS.

Increase performance on the mountain. Pre-acclimatization significantly improves the body’s mechanisms for delivering oxygen to the muscles. The result is increased aerobic and anaerobic performance on Kilimanjaro, such as hiking strength and endurance.

Increase recovery on the mountain. Breathing rates and oxygen intake decreases when the body is asleep. In an oxygen deficient environment, many people have difficulty sleeping. Pre-acclimatization enables people to sleep well, and thus, recover after physical activity.

Ultimate Kilimanjaro® has partnered with AltitudeTech to offer our customers discounts on the rental or purchase of altitude training systems.

AltitudeTech is the leading manufacturer of competitively priced altitude training systems. AltitudeTech’s altitude training systems allow climbers to pre-acclimatize in the comfort of their own home. The system can be used either during sleep, during rest, or during exercise.

The most effective training method is pre-acclimatize while sleeping. Climbers simply sleep inside the tent overnight. The tent fits over any bed size, king or smaller. Zippered doors are on both sides of the tent for easy entry and exit. Note that the enclosure is not air tight and is not intended to be. The generator pushes air with reduced oxygen content into the tent, forcing the normal oxygenated air out of the tent. We recommend sleeping overnight for 6-8 hours at a simulated altitude of 10,500 feet for 6-8 weeks for proper pre-acclimatization for Kilimanjaro.

Climbers can also pre-acclimatize while exercising by wearing an exercise mask during light workouts. To achieve benefits, it is enough to spend 30-40 minutes on a bike, elliptical or treadmill for 3-4 times a week. We recommend exercising at a simulated altitude of 10,500 feet for 6-8 weeks for proper pre-acclimatization for Kilimanjaro. These sessions are not meant to replace normal workouts, but are in addition to regular workouts in your Kilimanjaro training program.

Finally, it is possible to pre-acclimatize while resting – such as while watching television, reading, or surfing the internet. Wearing the mask daily, for one hour a day, at high altitudes is required. We recommend wearing the mask at a simulated altitude of 20,000 feet for 6-8 weeks for proper pre-acclimatization for Kilimanjaro.

Each method is effective in attaining acclimatization prior to climbing Kilimanjaro. Climbers do not have to engage in more than one method, but using multiple methods will yield greater results.AltitudeTech are experts in the field and will provide full instruction and support during your rental period.

The 8850 Summit+ Altitude Generator simulates a base altitude of 10,500 feet with the option of increasing altitude up to 20,000 feet with an adapter. The generator is sound insulated and runs on a dual piston precision balanced compressor on antivibration mounts. It is quiet and easy to operate.

Ultimate Kilimanjaro® clients can pre-acclimatize at home for only $169 a week (6-8 week rental period). This is 15% off AltitudeTech's already low prices. The discounted rate is valid only for paid Ultimate Kilimanjaro® clients. The rental includes everything you need:

8850 Summit+ Altitude Generator

Deluxe Dome Tent

Exercise Mask

High Altitude Adapter - enables simulated altitudes up to 20,000 feet

Altimeter - measures the simulated altitude in the tent

Pulse Oximeter - measures the oxygen saturation level in blood

Unlimited Expert Support - AltitudeTech advises Olympic and professional athletes